Industry, family and friends gather at Adelaide Oval to honour creative director Geoff Robertson

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GEOFF-R-1.jpgYesterday afternoon 500 plus people gathered at Adelaide Oval for a memorial service for Geoff Robertson.

Presentations covering four key themes of family, NATION, industry and sport were delivered by son Alex, brother Peter, business partner Greg Knagge, friends and colleagues John McLaren and Loewn Steel, and family friend Ross Dyer.

Both the Adelaide community and the Australian advertising and marketing community have been shocked by the sudden and unexpected passing of Robertson, who died earlier this month.

“He was my best friend, creative partner and unexpected brother,” said Greg Knagge, co-owner of NATION.

GEOFF-R-2.jpgQuotes from across Australia and overseas were received by John McLaren as part of the preparations for the memorial:

“I’m grateful to Geoff for everything he did in his time with the Clemenger Group and we are saddened by his loss.” Robert Morgan, Chairman Clemenger BBDO.

“To me Geoff was an inspirational creative mentor. His influence on my work helped me build a career that wouldn’t have been possible if not for him.” Tim Piper, Piro, NY.

“He believed success was ultimately doing the right thing by those in his life by sharing his knowledge, friendship, support, and most importantly, his time” Dale Roberts, CEO, Kojo

“Geoff was a guy that clients loved, suppliers loved and his agency loved. An incredibly hard worker who turned everything he touched into beautifully crafted and magnificently art directed fun.” Steve Callen, director.

“Geoff was such a solid, dependable guy. He was always there when we needed a pitch or help of any kind. The staff loved him and we all loved him. He will be missed.” David Fuller, previously Managing Director, Clemenger BBDO Adelaide.

“He was a wonderful man and, for us, epitomised everything we love about our industry.” John Baker, Managing Director, KWP!.

“In this business, you meet a lot of people along the way. I will remember Geoff as one of the nicest.” Tom McFarlane, Founding Partner M&C Saatchi Australia and Regional Creative Director.

“He listened – all he wanted was the best for us and for his work to be top-shelf.” Richard Blackwell, Motor Accident Commission of South Australia.

“Geoffrey was universally liked and respected by all in the Orlando Wines Marketing team for over 8 years and creatively contributed greatly to the international brand stature for Jacob’s creek.” Stephen Couche, previously Managing Director, Orlando Wines.

“Above all, Geoff was a really unique leader. His ability to command an audience but at the same time stand beside us – was not learned or manipulated – it was an inherent quality.” Anna Bardsley-Jones, Co-President, AADC (Adelaide Advertising and Design Club).